During a three-game losing streak, Kendrick Perkins calls the Los Angeles Lakers “gross.”
The Los Angeles Lakers, a team that has historically been synonymous with success, now find themselves at the center of harsh criticism following a three-game losing streak. One of their most vocal critics, former NBA champion and ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins, did not hold back in his assessment of the team, calling their recent performances “gross.”
Perkins’ Blunt Criticism
During an episode of ESPN’s “NBA Today,” Kendrick Perkins expressed his frustration with the Lakers, particularly their lack of defensive intensity and overall effort on the court. “Right now, the Lakers look gross,” Perkins stated bluntly. He went on to highlight how the team’s poor defensive rotations, lack of urgency, and inconsistent energy have significantly contributed to their recent struggles.
Defensive Struggles Plaguing the Lakers
The Lakers’ issues extend beyond just a few bad games. Their defense, which was once a stronghold, has been porous, allowing opponents to score with ease. In their latest losses, they conceded 118 points to the Orlando Magic, 121 points to the Philadelphia 76ers, and 125 points to the Denver Nuggets. These numbers reflect a lack of communication and effort, two critical components of elite defensive play.
“Defensively, they look lost. There’s no pride in guarding their man, and the help defense is almost nonexistent,” Perkins added. He also singled out key players, including LeBron James and Anthony Davis, insisting that they need to set the tone on defense and hold the rest of the team accountable.
Offensive Woes and Lack of Cohesion
While defense has been a glaring issue, the Lakers’ offense has also been inconsistent. In their last three losses, they have struggled with poor shot selection and a lack of ball movement. Their over-reliance on isolation plays and three-point shooting, despite an unimpressive percentage, has led to stagnant possessions and predictable offensive schemes.
Perkins pointed out that the Lakers need to go back to what worked for them in the past: ball movement, attacking the paint, and leveraging the playmaking abilities of LeBron James. “They need to stop playing hero ball. Move the rock, get everyone involved, and play with some heart,” he urged.
Leadership Concerns and Locker Room Issues
Another concern raised by Perkins is the lack of visible leadership. While LeBron James is a seasoned veteran and undisputed leader, the body language and energy of the team suggest that they may not be fully bought in. Perkins questioned whether head coach Darvin Ham has control of the locker room and whether internal conflicts are affecting their performance.
“This is about more than just Xs and Os. It’s about leadership and accountability. When I watch them play, I don’t see a team that trusts each other,” Perkins observed.
Looking Ahead: Can the Lakers Bounce Back?
Despite their recent struggles, the Lakers still have time to turn things around. With the postseason approaching, they must quickly address their defensive inefficiencies, offensive stagnation, and leadership concerns. Their next game against the Indiana Pacers will be a crucial test to see if they can rebound from their slump.
Kendrick Perkins’ harsh words may sting, but they are a reflection of the expectations placed on this historic franchise. Whether the Lakers can rise to the occasion and silence their critics remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: they must improve, and they must do so quickly.